VILLAGE leaders have paid tribute to a "much-loved" church volunteer who died after an horrific collision with a lorry.

The woman, aged in her 70s, died following the incident on Church Road in Rainford at around 11am on Wednesday.

Her name has not been released at this stage.

Reverend of Rainford Parish Church, Janet Heighton, said the woman had been a volunteer and member of the church congregation.

Describing the incident as "horrendous", she added: "The village and church congregation are really shocked and devastated by what is such a tragic accident.

"The lady was a much-loved member of the congregation. She was a lovely lady, very active and fun to be with."

Revd Heighton said the church was open all day yesterday (Thursday) for anybody to come in and talk, adding on Sunday (July 23) morning, there will be special prayers.

She said: "My thoughts are with the community as we all pull together."

The reverend said people had been talking about the tragedy. She has also visited village businesses to give people an opportunity to talk about what had happened and let them know the church was open.

Chairman of Rainford Parish Council, Councillor David Grice, said: "It is with deepest sadness that I have to say a few words regarding the tragedy that occurred in our village last Wednesday.

"I have lived in Rainford all my life and this is one of the most tragic accidents. Our village is a very close community and I can honestly say that all our hearts and thoughts go out to all the family and friends of the lady involved."

A floral tribute has been left near the scene on Church Road and flowers are believed to have been left near the church.

The 20mph road runs by a row of shops between Cross Pit Lane and the junction of Church Road and Southerns Lane.

The lorry involved in the incident is believed to have been stopped seven miles away in Haydock on the East Lancashire Road between Millfield Lane and Haydock Lane, near to the Asda collection point.

On Wednesday, investigations took place at two scenes – one in Rainford and the other in Haydock while investigations took place.

Police, who said the driver of the HGV was assisting with the investigation, are appealing for witnesses and their investigation is ongoing. Anyone with information can call MSOC Roads Policing Officers on 0151 777 5747.